Sundowns Midfielder Matias Esquivel Squeezed Out by Squad Crunch Under Miguel Cardoso

Matias Esquivel is facing an uncertain future at Mamelodi Sundowns as squad depth and league regulations limit his chances. The Argentine midfielder has returned to Tshwane after Greek Super League side AE Kifisia FC released him early from his loan spell. Esquivel joined Kifisia in August last year on a season long loan. The move was meant to give him regular game time. That opportunity never came. He struggled to secure minutes and was eventually allowed to leave before the end of the agreement.

The 26 year old arrived at Sundowns in January 2024 from CA Lanús in a deal reportedly valued at R47 million. Expectations were high. His spell with the reigning Betway Premiership champions has not gone as planned. He was first loaned out to CA Talleres before moving to Kifisia on a second temporary deal.

Now back at Sundowns, Esquivel faces a significant barrier. Premier Soccer League rules allow only five foreign players per club. Sundowns have already filled those slots with Arthur Sales of Brazil, Marcelo Allende of Chile, Portuguese duo Nuno Santos and Miguel Reisinho and Colombian forward Brayan León.

Because Esquivel spent the season out on loan, Sundowns did not register him. This effectively rules him out of contention for the current campaign. Even with squad rotation or injuries, the regulations leave little flexibility. Miguel Cardoso’s squad is loaded with established performers. Competition in midfield is intense. Even without the foreign quota issue, breaking into the matchday squad would be difficult.

As it stands, Esquivel is unlikely to feature for Sundowns this season. Another loan move is viewed as the most realistic option. A permanent transfer is also possible. Reports suggest several clubs in Argentina are monitoring his situation closely, although no destination has been confirmed. For Esquivel, the next move is critical. Regular football is the priority. His quality is not in doubt. His place in a star-studded Sundowns squad is.